You sometimes see artwork where a person has an angel over one shoulder and a demon over the other. Sometimes they are shown to be whispering into the person’s ear. Regardless of whether the artist thinks these good and evil spirits are literally on someone’s shoulder, the idea is clear—that there are good and bad … Continue reading Angels and demons on our shoulders?
demons
Call out to God. Don’t wait.
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).A man named Abba Elias told an old story about a man who was living in a temple. Demons came to pester him, trying to get him to leave. To some of you that might seem shocking. Perhaps you’ve been told … Continue reading Call out to God. Don’t wait.
They hate anything that reminds them of hope
There are times when someone who is sad doesn’t like to see someone who is happy. This isn’t with everyone and not all of the time, but certainly with some people and for some of the time. The reasons can differ. Perhaps the sad person is jealous. Or perhaps the sad person is reminded about … Continue reading They hate anything that reminds them of hope
Walking into a battlefield with one eye closed
When I say the word “demons,” what comes to mind? Is it The Exorcist movie, or someone on TV supposedly commanding an evil spirit to depart as he hits someone on the forehead? There is a lot of information out there which is either misguided or wrong. But that shouldn’t dissuade us from learning more … Continue reading Walking into a battlefield with one eye closed
To destroy the works of the devil
Okay, time to think big about something many of us have probably not thought enough about. When we think about “spiritual warfare” we often think about temptation, the Devil, or personal battles. That makes sense. But have you ever wondered why Satan and his demons hate us? It’s a big topic. I won’t pretend to … Continue reading To destroy the works of the devil
The angels of God will encamp around us
In the previous devotional we discussed how God has constructed reality. I highlighted four categories of beings. (If you missed it, scroll back a day.) Category 2 is heavenly begins. This includes angels and demons (more commonly called ‘unclean spirits’ in the New Testament). But what do they do? First, the good news. Angels are … Continue reading The angels of God will encamp around us
Triumphant (over evil)
"Don't be afraid." That's easier to say than it is to live. Generally speaking, people need a reason to be unafraid. For example, if I'm an 8-year old and I see a bully on the playground, I might be afraid. But if I then see my big brother come onto the playground---who just so happens … Continue reading Triumphant (over evil)
They fear concentration
John Climacus wrote a book in the early 7th century that became very influential among Christians. It was called The Ladder of Divine Ascent. Among other things it was a book about becoming more like Jesus. In it he wrote: "Demons fear concentration as thieves fear dogs."* He put a high value on concentration. He was … Continue reading They fear concentration
Though it be but words
“Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me…” (Psalm 43:3, ESV). Anthony lived in the fourth century. He has had a massive influence on Christians. He fasted, prayed, shunned wealth and praise, memorized Scripture, and lived a life of focused simplicity. Even though he would go into the desert to be alone, … Continue reading Though it be but words
